Dota 2 officially launches on Steam

The wait is over. Valve has finally released its multiplayer online battle arena game, Dota 2, after nearly two years in beta form. If you’ve staunchly avoided playing the game before its official launch, you can now download the free-to-play title on Steam, though you won’t be able to jump in immediately to see what the MOBA madness is all about.

The company explained on the game’s website, saying that new players will be added to a launch queue, with an e-mail notifying them when the game is ready for them. Over time, players will be allowed to join in greater numbers.

"Our thinking is that we want the existing audience to have uninterrupted access during the launch, in addition to bringing new players into Dota 2 in a way that isn't frustrating,” Valve said. “Simply put, we want to smooth out the traditional launch spike, but at the same time allow anyone to come in and try out Dota 2."

Valve also revealed a new tutorial feature that introduces newcomers and MOBA noobs the basics for Dota 2’s gameplay. “Once you're in, you can get a feel for what Dota 2 is all about by playing through the tutorial. After you've mastered some of the basics of the game, we have AI controlled bots for you to battle against, which can be set to a number of different skill levels.”

"You can even grab a group of friends to play against the bots. It's a great way to get started playing Dota 2 and figuring out who will be your first favorite hero."

Interested in knowing more? You can find out more about the particulars of the launch, as well as how to download Dota 2, via the game’s website.

A writer, journalist, and aspiring storyteller, Peter Grimm has been gaming since the days of the Nintendo 64, and reporting on the goings-on in the World of Gaming since late 2011. His base of writing operations is located within the void between Here and There, or so he would have you think.

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